Victor Wembanyama wants to bring European culture to the NBA: The French superstar initiates a project that could change the fan experience

Victor Wembanyama is no longer content with just revolutionizing basketball on the court. The French star of the San Antonio Spurs now wants to transform the atmosphere in the stands by creating a true supporters’ section, inspired by what he experienced in Europe. Auditions for this new « supporter’s section » are scheduled for Sunday, September 14, with the French All-Star in attendance.

Victor Wembanyama convinced the San Antonio Spurs to hold tryouts for a fan section, per @espn

« It will be modeled after what he’s seen from soccer and basketball teams in Europe and around the world. The section of fans will feature nonstop chants, drums, flags, and passion. » pic.twitter.com/ZSF2BaqNgC

— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) September 10, 2025

« It was an idea. And now it’s a project, » Wembanyama said about this ambitious initiative. The concept draws directly from European ultras groups, with « non-stop chants, drums, flags and passion » according to the Spurs.

A costly project already causing division

Membership to this elite group will cost $999, plus a commitment to attend at least 75% of home games during the season. Members must « participate in chants and rituals » while supporting the team « with passion and respect. » In return, they will receive discounts and meetings with surprise guests.

« If this ultras group reaches its full potential, I have no doubt it will help us win games in the future, » hopes Wembanyama. « The 41 regular season home games this season are 41 opportunities for them to push us in the fourth quarter and give us that extra energy that can bring us victory. »

However, this project is already raising questions. Unlike European supporter sections that organically emerge from popular passion, this initiative appears more like a marketing product. The selection process through auditions goes against the authentic DNA of ultras groups, which naturally form around shared history and codes.

The challenges of cultural transplantation

The cultural difference between European supporters and NBA audiences represents a major obstacle. NBA season ticket holders generally seek premium comfort rather than the constant physical engagement of a supporters’ section. Moreover, maintaining this intensity over 41 home games, including less attractive midweek matches, represents a considerable challenge.

The business model also transforms fervor into a merchandise product, which goes against the spirit of true supporter sections, traditionally emerging from working-class fans who naturally claim the stands as their own. Despite these obstacles, Wembanyama’s initiative demonstrates his desire to enrich the basketball experience in San Antonio, even if the result risks being more artificial than authentic.